Key Takeaways

• Samuel Chukwueze has successfully undergone surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his left hip.
• The operation took place in London and was performed by Professor Ernest Schilders.
• AC Milan has not announced an official recovery timeline.
• Italian media estimates suggest an absence of at least three months, potentially extending to five months.
• The injury could affect his availability for Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifying matches against Tanzania.
• Chukwueze sustained the injury during AC Milan’s 1-0 defeat to Atalanta on October 18.
• The winger had recorded two assists in eight appearances after returning from his Fulham loan spell.

Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze has undergone successful surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his left hip, with the AC Milan winger expected to spend at least three months recovering from the injury.

The operation was confirmed by AC Milan on November 4, following medical assessments that led to the decision to proceed with surgery. The procedure took place in London and was performed by Professor Ernest Schilders, with AC Milan doctor Stefano Mazzoni also in attendance.

Chukwueze is expected to return to Italy later on Wednesday, where he will begin the rehabilitation process as he works towards regaining full fitness.

AC Milan Confirm Chukwueze’s Successful Operation

The successful operation represents an important step in Chukwueze’s recovery after the injury disrupted his progress this season.

Although AC Milan confirmed that the surgery was successful, the club has not announced an official recovery timeline for the Nigerian winger. This means his exact return date remains uncertain as he begins rehabilitation.

Reports from Italian media outlets have, however, provided some indication of how long he could be unavailable.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Chukwueze could require a minimum of three months to recover. Meanwhile, La Gazzetta dello Sport has suggested that his absence could extend to as long as five months, potentially delaying his return until spring 2027.

These figures remain media estimates rather than an officially confirmed recovery schedule from AC Milan.

How Chukwueze Sustained the Injury

The Nigerian winger suffered the injury during AC Milan’s 1-0 defeat to Atalanta on October 18.

The initial approach was to manage the problem through conservative treatment. However, following further medical assessments, surgery was eventually considered necessary to address the ruptured tendon in his left hip.

The decision to undergo surgery means Chukwueze must now concentrate on rehabilitation before he can be considered for a return to competitive football.

Injury Could Affect Nigeria’s AFCON Qualifying Campaign

Chukwueze’s absence could also present a setback for the Nigeria national team, particularly with the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars approaching.

The winger’s recovery period could place his availability for the fixtures in doubt, depending on how his rehabilitation progresses.

His absence would leave Nigeria without one of the attacking options available to the national team. However, his potential involvement in the qualifying matches will depend on his fitness and the progress he makes during recovery.

For now, the priority will be ensuring that he recovers properly rather than rushing his return to action.

Chukwueze’s Season Interrupted After Fulham Loan

Chukwueze returned to AC Milan following a season-long loan spell at Fulham and had recorded two assists in eight appearances across all competitions before the injury setback.

His early contributions suggested that he was looking to make an impact after returning to the Italian club. However, the hip injury has now interrupted his progress and could keep him away from action for a considerable period.

With surgery successfully completed, the focus now shifts to his rehabilitation in Italy. The length of his absence will become clearer as he progresses through the recovery process and receives further medical assessments.

For AC Milan and Nigeria, Chukwueze’s return to full fitness will be an important development to follow in the coming months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What injury did Samuel Chukwueze suffer?

Samuel Chukwueze suffered a ruptured tendon in his left hip, which required surgical treatment.

2. Has Samuel Chukwueze undergone surgery?

Yes. AC Milan confirmed that the Nigerian international successfully underwent surgery in London on November 4.

3. How long will Samuel Chukwueze be out?

Italian media reports estimate that he could be sidelined for at least three months, with some reports suggesting an absence of up to five months. AC Milan has not confirmed an official recovery timeline.

4. Who performed Samuel Chukwueze’s surgery?

The operation was performed by Professor Ernest Schilders, with AC Milan doctor Stefano Mazzoni also in attendance.

5. Could Chukwueze miss Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers against Tanzania?

Yes. His recovery period could affect his availability for Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 AFCON qualifying double-header against Tanzania, although his participation will depend on his rehabilitation progress.

6. When could Samuel Chukwueze return to action?

An official return date has not been announced. Italian media reports suggest his recovery could take between three and five months, with a possible return in spring 2027.